Tuesday, January 6, 2015
With cold snap, fire safety advice
Weather forecasters are predicting some of the coldest temperatures of the winter will envelope the Savannah area during the next several days. Overnight temperatures are expected to drop into the 20s and 30s as the weekend approaches.
Savannah firefighters want citizens to remember a few basic fire safety guidelines as they prepare to keep warm during the falling temperatures.
Space Heaters
Space heaters can be dangerous if not used with some general safety guidelines in mind. Before using space heaters, inspect them for proper operation and damage including the power cord. It is more economical to replace older units than to have them repaired. Newer units are safer and more economical to operate.
Always maintain a minimum clearance of three feet around space heaters. Keep space heaters away from combustible or flammable materials such as bedding, curtains and upholstered furniture. Never use an extension cord with a space heater and maintain a child and pet safety zone around space heaters.
Never use any type of fuel powered heating device inside a closed structure. Never use gasoline in any space heater.
Gasoline Powered Equipment
Flammable liquids should not be stored inside the home or in an attached garage or shed. This includes any unused fuel still in the motor’s fuel tanks.
Smoke Detectors
Nuisance or false alarms are the number one cause for battery removal and are usually caused by installing units too close to the kitchen and or heating vents. Relocate units closer to, or inside sleeping areas to prevent false alarms.
Replace batteries at least once per year, or when otherwise necessary.
Clean dust and cob webs from around the cover to let air flow inside.
Push the test button once a month to make sure it works properly.
Home Fire Escape Plans
Involve everyone in the home, especially children in the design and practice of your plan.
Designate one meeting place for everyone to gather after evacuating.
Children need to know how to save themselves when no one can help them.
Practice the plan once a year or anytime living arrangements change in the home.
Savannah firefighters want citizens to remember a few basic fire safety guidelines as they prepare to keep warm during the falling temperatures.
Space Heaters
Space heaters can be dangerous if not used with some general safety guidelines in mind. Before using space heaters, inspect them for proper operation and damage including the power cord. It is more economical to replace older units than to have them repaired. Newer units are safer and more economical to operate.
Always maintain a minimum clearance of three feet around space heaters. Keep space heaters away from combustible or flammable materials such as bedding, curtains and upholstered furniture. Never use an extension cord with a space heater and maintain a child and pet safety zone around space heaters.
Never use any type of fuel powered heating device inside a closed structure. Never use gasoline in any space heater.
Gasoline Powered Equipment
Flammable liquids should not be stored inside the home or in an attached garage or shed. This includes any unused fuel still in the motor’s fuel tanks.
Smoke Detectors
Nuisance or false alarms are the number one cause for battery removal and are usually caused by installing units too close to the kitchen and or heating vents. Relocate units closer to, or inside sleeping areas to prevent false alarms.
Replace batteries at least once per year, or when otherwise necessary.
Clean dust and cob webs from around the cover to let air flow inside.
Push the test button once a month to make sure it works properly.
Home Fire Escape Plans
Involve everyone in the home, especially children in the design and practice of your plan.
Designate one meeting place for everyone to gather after evacuating.
Children need to know how to save themselves when no one can help them.
Practice the plan once a year or anytime living arrangements change in the home.
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